- A colorless liquid with a molecular weight of 34.0 which is often combined with phosphoric or mineral acid, pyrophosphate salts and stannate for it to become an effective whitening ingredient. It is commercially supplied in either 33% or 37% of aqueous solution with very low levels of organic impurities and inorganic impurities including heavy metals. It is miscible in water yet considered by many as a strong oxidant that can form free radicals through the process of hemolytic cleavage.

What are the classifications of hydrogen peroxide based on its tooth bleaching usage?

Hydrogen peroxide used in tooth bleaching is classified into three. These are based on the amount of concentration that includes (1) the use of 30% to 35% of the hydrogen peroxide which is strictly for professional teeth whitening use (2) the use of 10% of hydrogen peroxide commonly associated with products dispensed by the dentist for home teeth bleaching product formulation and (3) the use of 6% of hydrogen peroxide for over-the-counter teeth bleaching products.

How is it useful for Teeth Whitening

Hydrogen peroxide assists in the degradation of complex organic and high molecular weight molecules, which are reflected in particular wavelength of light, which results to the production of certain stain colors. This process of degradation helps lower the molecular weight of these molecules resulting to the reduction or elimination of tooth discoloration. Dentists include this in their teeth whitening formulation because it has seen to effectively lighten the color o f the dentin and the enamel due to the easy passage of urea and peroxide through the tooth.

Side effects (Dangers)

The use of hydrogen peroxide in teeth whitening products have been declared safe by the FDA, as long as the concentration is strictly followed, yet patients who wish to take advantage of its benefits should also be aware of its possible side effects. Some of which are as follow:

Mild tooth sensitivity

Some users experience pain when drinking or eating hot and cold foods. This is one of the common side effects of teeth whitening products as a result of the teeth’s chemical reaction to the solution.

Throat soreness

This is most likely to occur if patients accidentally swallow the teeth whitening solution.

Gum pain and irritation

Minimal amount of hydrogen peroxide does not propose any threat to the oral health of the user. In fact, studies show that 1.5% of hydrogen peroxide contained in mouth wash products is proven effective in preventing gingival problems.

Tongue discoloration

Research studies show that excessive use of mouth wash which contains hydrogen peroxide also results to tongue discoloration.

Everyone should bear in mind that highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide is to be administered by professionals alone because overuse of the product will result to extreme gum irritation and mouth irritation. Strictly follow the prescription of your dentist to avoid any unwanted discomforts to occur.

Remember

It is safer to use teeth whitening products that are prepared by your dentist but it is best if you will choose the more expensive in-house teeth whitening treatment. You will realize that it is more economical in the future because it will give you a higher assurance that you will not suffer from unwanted health complications related to hydrogen peroxide toxicity.